Lemon Butter Scallops

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Introduction

Lemon Butter Scallops are a quick, elegant dish that brings out the best in scallops with a delicate, buttery sauce enhanced by the bright zing of lemon. This dish strikes the perfect balance between rich and light, making it an ideal choice for a special occasion, weeknight dinner, or seafood lover’s delight. The scallops are seared to perfection, tender and slightly caramelized on the outside, while the buttery sauce adds a burst of citrusy freshness. Whether paired with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad, these Lemon Butter Scallops will surely impress.

I remember the first time I made these for a dinner party, and the compliments kept rolling in. The combination of the silky butter sauce and the tangy lemon made the scallops taste so indulgent, yet light enough to enjoy as a main or an appetizer. What’s fantastic about this dish is how easy it is to make—just a few ingredients, a hot pan, and a couple of minutes to sear the scallops to golden perfection. It’s a showstopper that looks and tastes far more complicated than it really is. Whether for a romantic dinner or an elegant weeknight meal, Lemon Butter Scallops are guaranteed to leave everyone craving more!

Perfect for:

  • Special occasions
  • Seafood lovers
  • Elegant weeknight dinners
  • Pairing with pasta, rice, or vegetables
  • Easy yet impressive meals

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Lemon Butter Scallops are bound to become your new favorite seafood dish:

  • Bright Lemon Flavor: The fresh lemon juice and zest provide a refreshing contrast to the rich butter sauce.
  • Perfectly Seared Scallops: The scallops are cooked to golden perfection, creating a crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior.
  • Simple Ingredients: Made with just a few basic ingredients, this dish is quick and easy yet feels indulgent.
  • Versatile Side Pairings: It pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, steamed vegetables, or a crisp salad.
  • Elegant Presentation: The shiny, golden sauce and perfectly cooked scallops make for an impressive dish that’s perfect for entertaining.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 10 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Carbs: 5g, Fat: 14g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make Lemon Butter Scallops:

For the Scallops:

  • 1 lb fresh sea scallops (about 16-20 scallops)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For the Lemon Butter Sauce:

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Scallops: Fresh, high-quality scallops are key to the success of this dish. They should be firm and slightly sweet in flavor.
  • Butter: Adds a creamy richness to the sauce that complements the delicate scallops.
  • Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemon provides a bright, tangy note that enhances the buttery sauce.
  • Garlic: Adds depth and aromatic flavor to the sauce.
  • Parsley: Optional, but it adds a burst of color and freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Lemon Butter Scallops:

Prepare the Scallops:

  1. Pat the Scallops Dry: Gently pat the scallops with paper towels to remove any moisture. This step ensures a crispy sear.
  2. Season the Scallops: Season the scallops with salt and pepper on both sides.

Cook the Scallops:

  1. Heat the Olive Oil: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Sear the Scallops: Once the oil is hot, add the scallops in a single layer. Avoid crowding the pan to ensure a good sear. Cook the scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and opaque in the center. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:

  1. Add the Butter and Lemon: Add the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter to the skillet, followed by the lemon juice and zest. Stir well to combine and allow the butter to melt.
  2. Simmer the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  3. Return the Scallops to the Pan: Add the seared scallops back into the skillet and toss them gently in the sauce for 1-2 minutes until they are coated and warmed through.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley for added color and flavor, then serve immediately.

How to Serve

  • With Pasta: Serve the scallops over pasta like linguine or spaghetti for a rich, satisfying meal.
  • With Rice: Serve alongside a bed of white rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious lemon butter sauce.
  • With Vegetables: Pair with roasted vegetables, sautéed spinach, or steamed asparagus for a light and nutritious meal.
  • On a Salad: Add the scallops to a fresh green salad for a light and refreshing lunch or dinner.
  • With Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread to dip into the flavorful sauce.

Additional Tips

  • Don’t Overcook the Scallops: Scallops cook quickly and can become tough if overcooked. Be sure to sear them just until opaque in the center.
  • Use Fresh Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest will give you the best flavor for the sauce.
  • Customize the Sauce: If you want extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat or a splash of white wine (if you wish).
  • Rest the Scallops: Let the scallops rest for a minute after searing to ensure they retain their moisture.

Recipe Variations

  1. Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp – Substitute shrimp for the scallops in the recipe for a different seafood option.
  2. Lemon Butter Salmon – Swap the scallops for salmon fillets, adjusting the cooking time.
  3. Crispy Lemon Butter Scallops – Coat the scallops in breadcrumbs before searing for an extra crispy texture.
  4. Lemon Herb Butter Scallops – Add thyme or basil to the sauce for an herbal twist.
  5. Cajun Lemon Butter Scallops – Add a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning for some spice.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Scallops can be frozen before cooking. Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
  • Storage: Store leftover cooked scallops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.

Special Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Zester for fresh lemon zest
  • Knife for mincing garlic

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use frozen scallops? Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
  2. How do I know when the scallops are done? Scallops should be opaque and slightly firm in the center.
  3. Can I make this recipe in advance? This dish is best served immediately, but you can prep the scallops and sauce ahead of time.
  4. Can I substitute the butter? You can use olive oil or ghee for a dairy-free option.
  5. Can I serve this with a side of potatoes? Absolutely! Mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes pair beautifully with the lemon butter sauce.

Conclusion

Lemon Butter Scallops are a seafood lover’s dream, offering a burst of bright, fresh flavor with every bite. The rich, buttery sauce perfectly complements the delicate sweetness of the scallops, while the zesty lemon adds a refreshing, tangy kick that elevates this dish to a whole new level of deliciousness. Quick and easy to prepare, these scallops are an elegant option for any occasion.

Whether you’re preparing a simple weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a special gathering, Lemon Butter Scallops are sure to wow everyone with their perfect balance of flavors. Each tender scallop, bathed in buttery goodness and a hint of citrus, is a true treat.

I’d love to see how your Lemon Butter Scallops turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your culinary creations. Enjoy this elegant and flavorful dish!

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